Ethiopian Airlines form a new company in DRC to operate as Air Congo starting December 2024
As if it is not big enough, Ethiopian Airline is forming a new carrier outside its home country.
Africa’s largest and most ambitious airline is investing in new company in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Ethiopian Airlines is launching Air Congo, a new carrier to be based in Kinshasa and which is set to take flight in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This new airline, based in Kinshasa is a joint venture between Ethiopian and the Congolese government.
According to Addis Insight, Air Congo is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy to grow its footprint across the African continent, capturing the booming demand for air travel.
Ethiopian Airlines will own 49 percent shares in the new Air Congo, with the government at Kinshasa holding the majority at 51 Percent.
It is almost the same arrangement between Kenya Airways and Tanzania’s Precision-Air.
Definitely targeting the Christmas rush, Air Congo opens shop from December 2024.
Air Congo which is essentially a phoenix rising from its own ashes, will fly two Boeing 737-800s leased directly from the mother company, the Ethiopian Airlines’ fleet.
These aircraft are currently being prepared for their debut, including a fresh paint job with Air Congo’s new logo.
Ethiopian Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew, told African Aerospace, that establishing a start-up airline comes with its challenges, especially in securing aircraft.
“Since it is a new venture, it is difficult to get aircraft, so we took out two airplanes from our operation,” he said. “The first one will go for painting with the airline’s new logo this week.”
For starters, Air Congo will serve domestic routes within the DR Congo, with plans to expand to regional destinations as operations grow.
The airline aims to expand its fleet to six Boeing 737-800s within its first year, setting a strong foundation for regional connectivity and reliable air service in an underserved market.
This move highlights Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy of creating and supporting regional carriers across Africa. Air Congo follows the success of Ethiopian’s joint ventures with ASKY in Togo, Zambia Airways, and Malawi Airlines. Although Ethiopian had aimed to establish a similar venture in Nigeria earlier this year, those plans were put on hold.
By investing in African aviation, Ethiopian Airlines aims to increase access to safe, reliable air travel across the continent, empowering local economies and meeting the rising demand. The launch of Air Congo could be a game-changer for the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country where airlines have often struggled to stay afloat.
As Ethiopian Airlines backs yet another regional airline, Air Congo promises to be a significant step forward for African aviation, strengthening connections within the continent and building a foundation for sustained growth.